What is a Public School?

A public school is any educational institution which is funded by taxpayer money. This type of education is administered and overseen by a school board which is responsible to the citizens of a particular community. Public schools usually teach their students according to the standard curriculum approved by local school boards operating within educational guidelines and standards set at the state and federal levels.

Public schools work to ensure that all students have access to the basic educational programs required by state and federal laws. In contrast, private schools must meet educational standards set by their particular guidelines or charters and usually require parents to pay tuition expenses. In addition to education programs, public schools often provide additional services to qualified students, including on-site health care, counseling, and after-school activities such as sports programs.